Godfrey Charles Bent
St. Elizabeth, Jamaica; Bronx, New York; Woolwich, New Jersey
Godfrey Charles Bent
Man of dignity. Man of strength.
Obituary
With broken hearts and sadness, we say goodbye to Godfrey Bent, who went to his heavenly home on Wednesday, May 8th, 2024. He was a remarkable man who touched the lives of so many. We remember the loving husband to Mauver, devoted father to Andre, Natalie and Dwayne, cherished grandfather to Amaris and Trevor, dedicated friend, inspiring teacher, accomplished investment banker and wonderful person that Godfrey was. Though gone, his memory will forever remain a beacon of light in our lives and his legacy will live on.
Godfrey was born on April 23, 1942 to Egbert and Clarry Bent in Morningside, St. Elizabeth, Jamaica. He attended Mico Teacher's College and began teaching at several primary schools in St. Elizabeth including Santa Cruz All Age School and Litiz All Age School. Forging his passion as an educator, he went on to teach at Junction Secondary School, now known as BB Coke High School. He attained both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Science from Central Connecticut State University in 1978 and 1979, respectively and both with honors. He returned to Jamaica and continued teaching at Junction Secondary School and mathematics at Munro College. His life as an educator culminated as he became Vice Principal of Junction Secondary School. He also was a CXC examiner, marking completed examinations as well as developing questions for the test. Throughout his career as a teacher, he found intriguing ways to engage his students including using music to increase attendance on Fridays. He was beloved by his former students; many of whom became close friends. His leadership and creativity at Munro led to the development of several enhancements to the school. Similarly at Junction, he advocated for and was responsible for the first bus at Junction Secondary School.
In the mid-1980s, Godfrey migrated to New York in the United States. He quickly realized that teaching was not for him in the States and sought to rebrand his career. He used his strong analytical skills and love for numbers to forge a new career path as an investment banker. He obtained post-graduate diplomas in Financial Management and Debt Securities (stocks and bonds). He worked for several banks in New York including First American Bank of New York, First Bank of the Americas and DZ Bank, investing in securities, where he ended his career as a consultant and Vice President.
After marrying Veronica Bent nee Alvaranga, Godfrey welcomed his first child, Andre, into the world. He cherished his role as a father and shared many fond memories with Andre (married to Marjorie). Later in life, Godfrey found love again and married Mauver Bent nee Legister with whom he had known since they were children. They were married for nearly 40 years and only separated by Godfrey's passing. Together, they welcomed two children, Natalie Bernard nee Bent (married to Trevor) and Dwayne Bent. He had two grandchildren, Amaris and Trevor Charles and cherished both of them. He was a wonderful brother to his siblings, Canute, Vivian, Trasvin (deceased), Enid (deceased), O'Neil (deceased), and Ernie (deceased). He was always incredibly proud of his family and their roots within the St. Elizabeth community.
Godfrey loved life and found time to devote to several hobbies and interests. He loved music, playing dominoes, volleyball, cricket, baseball (dedicated NY Yankees fan) and enjoyed good food and fruits, especially robin mangoes. He loved laughing and bringing out the joy in others, especially with his sense of humor. He left a legacy of love and compassion, unwavering resilience and dedication to family and friends that will not be forgotten.
Gallery
Videos
Memory wall
Post your condolences or share your Memories.
July 23, 2024
I met Godfrey while marking CXC exam scripts at Shortwood College in the early 1980's. I distinctly remember him relating his experience in the aftermath of an accident in which he was severely injured. It was such an intriguing story that though I never met him again, I always remembered hm. For some reason, I thought of him today and decided to google him, only to learn that he passed two months ago. To his family and other loved ones, I offer my condolences.
RIP Godfrey, you were an inspiration.
RIP Godfrey, you were an inspiration.
May 26, 2024
Condolences to the Bents family may his soul rest in peace.
May 24, 2024
It was great having you a part of life you will be greatly missed condolences to the family you lived a full life and I surely miss you coming to Jamaica and calling me to come see you to help you fix a problem on the house walk good GB from me Holly and the boys
May 24, 2024
R.I.P. Godfrey - a life well lived. Thanks for the lives you touched on your magnificent journey.
May 21, 2024
Condolences to the family of my cousin
May you find peace and comfort as you mourn the loss of your loved one.
May you find peace and comfort as you mourn the loss of your loved one.
May 20, 2024
Godfrey was a true and real Jamaican. His work for Jamaica and St. Elizabeth in particular will not be forgotten.
Sincere condolences to his family and the Good Lord keep you during this period of loss.
Sincere condolences to his family and the Good Lord keep you during this period of loss.
May 20, 2024
My condolences to all the family of my cousin Godfrey. You will be sadly missed rest in piece. From Roslyn and family. 🙏
May 17, 2024
Condolences to the family and friends. From Hazel Witter, Rose Hall, St. Elizabeth.
May 17, 2024
My sincere condolences to the Bent's family. Mr Bent was my Math teacher at the then Junction Secondary school. He was the best Math teacher ever. May his soul rest in Paradise.
May 16, 2024
Rest In Peace Cousin Godfrey, GOD speed ahead.
May 16, 2024
Condolences to the family of Mr. Godfrey Bent from the Rose Hall Primary and Infant School School family.
Mr. Bent had assisted the school greatly by making a cash donation to us which was well needed.
We are saddened by the passing of such a wonderful person. We pray that God will comfort you during this time.
Mr. Bent had assisted the school greatly by making a cash donation to us which was well needed.
We are saddened by the passing of such a wonderful person. We pray that God will comfort you during this time.
May 15, 2024
Mr Bent had a brilliant mind, a beautiful heart and a calm spirit, his legacy will live on forever. To Marva, Natalie, Dwayne , TC and Trevor even though it may be difficult today to see beyond the sorrow. I know memories will help to bring you comfort and joy tomorrow. May he RIP
❤️❤️
❤️❤️
May 15, 2024
My since condolences Mauver, Dwayne,Natalie, Andray and grandchildren. Mr Bent was a one of a kind person one of the most accomplished person that I have ever know , may your memory be a blessing . Rest well as you will be surely missed ❤️
May 14, 2024
The best teacher ever, he was my inspiration to pursue a career in teaching.. I admired his passion, strength and pursuit for excellence. A life well lived. RIP
May 14, 2024
Dear Mauver,
Please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of your husband. May God guide you, your children and grandchildren during this difficult time.
Cecile
Please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of your husband. May God guide you, your children and grandchildren during this difficult time.
Cecile
May 14, 2024
May 14 2024
My condolences to the family witch I am also a part of uncle Godfrey and my grandmother are two first cousins you will always be remember for your kindness and words of wisdom when ever you would come to Jamaica 🇯🇲 I would always come to the house to see you and you would said how is everyone out a yard da and then you said what is your plan for the future 🔮 and I would tell you we love you but God loves you best sleep and take your rest in the arms of thy lord from me and my mom coolie and daughter rip
My condolences to the family witch I am also a part of uncle Godfrey and my grandmother are two first cousins you will always be remember for your kindness and words of wisdom when ever you would come to Jamaica 🇯🇲 I would always come to the house to see you and you would said how is everyone out a yard da and then you said what is your plan for the future 🔮 and I would tell you we love you but God loves you best sleep and take your rest in the arms of thy lord from me and my mom coolie and daughter rip
May 13, 2024
Another brilliant mind had left us. He had left an indelible impression on thousands of lives including mind as vice principal and one of my mathematics teachers at Junction Secondary. He was a genius and passionate man who gave back to society much more than he has received and I know he had received a lot. The evidence of Mr. Bent’s contributions to society will continue to live on in the many lives that he had touched. My deepest condolences to his wife Marva and family and may the Lord comfort you all during this difficult period. I share in your grief. Sleep well and peacefully Mr. Bent. 🙏
May 13, 2024
My condolences to all the family. Uncle Godfrey you will greatly be missed. I have many fond memories of when you came to London and when we would be in Jamaica at the same time. You were an inspiring, humble, brilliant man. Who was always cool, calm and collected. You will be missed but never forgotten. Rest in peace, your niece Natalie.
May 13, 2024
Sadly missed!!! All the best to Mauva and family
May 13, 2024
Very humble teacher and leader. My time at Junction School shaped my life to become the leader I am today. Jah Bless
May 13, 2024
My sincerest condolences to all my family of my late Uncle Godfrey. One fondess memory of him was when he visited us, we had a reunion in London(UK) he was such a meek humble soul
Praying for all the family as we grieved at this sad time. RIEP Uncle Godfrey🙏🏻🙏🏻💔Gone but not forgetten.
Joyce, Claudette, Jacqueline, Tony, Steve, Owen
Praying for all the family as we grieved at this sad time. RIEP Uncle Godfrey🙏🏻🙏🏻💔Gone but not forgetten.
Joyce, Claudette, Jacqueline, Tony, Steve, Owen
May 13, 2024
My condolences to the family
It was an honor and a privilege to know Godfrey as the vice principal at Junction Secondary School now BB Coke high in St.Elizabeth, Jamaica as well as to be taught by him
He was an excellent teacher and an extraordinary individual
He has touched so many lives from different walks of life and most certainly he will be missed by all who has crossed path with him
It was an honor and a privilege to know Godfrey as the vice principal at Junction Secondary School now BB Coke high in St.Elizabeth, Jamaica as well as to be taught by him
He was an excellent teacher and an extraordinary individual
He has touched so many lives from different walks of life and most certainly he will be missed by all who has crossed path with him
May 12, 2024
I am sorry for your loss Mr Bent taught me mathematics at Junction Secondary School years ago and he was such a humble person.
May 12, 2024
“A true friend is never truly gone. Their spirit lives on in the memories of those who loved them.”
Mr. G. C. Bent was my math teacher turned colleague, vice principal, acting principal, and above all he was my friend. This all happened at the Junction Secondary School in the 1970’s.
He was a good man, a role model. The teacher instilled discipline in all his students. The vice principal motivated and encouraged collaboration, and respect among his teachers. The acting principal led with honor and dignity. The friend was humble and jovial. Sleep in peace my friend.
Mr. G. C. Bent was my math teacher turned colleague, vice principal, acting principal, and above all he was my friend. This all happened at the Junction Secondary School in the 1970’s.
He was a good man, a role model. The teacher instilled discipline in all his students. The vice principal motivated and encouraged collaboration, and respect among his teachers. The acting principal led with honor and dignity. The friend was humble and jovial. Sleep in peace my friend.
May 12, 2024
Rest peacefully Mr Bent ♥️
May 12, 2024
Rest in Eternal Peace Mr Bent.
Sincere Condolences to Auntie Mauver and family.
Sincere Condolences to Auntie Mauver and family.
May 12, 2024
My condolences to the family of Mr Bent who was my math &science teacher at Junction Secondary School . I was among the first group of students from 1971 through to graduation. Mr Bent was a great teacher who instilled discipline and focus in his students. Mr Bent your good work here on earth is done. May your soul RIP.
May 12, 2024
Rest in peace, Uncle Godfrey. Your kind, sweet spirit will not be forgotten. Love and light to Aunt Mauver and the family as you grieve this great loss.
May 12, 2024
You were a teacher who I greatly admired in my primary and secondary years of schooling both at the Lititz All Age and the Junction Secondary School. You will be greatly missed. RIP Mr. G! Take your rest for the great trumpet sound will not be too long. My condolences to all his family and friends
May 12, 2024
Rest in Peace Mr Bent! My nine-three grade teacher at Junction Seconday in the early seventies. Such a great no nonsense educator you were.My deepest condolence, and prayers to your family and friends.🙏🏼
May 11, 2024
RIP, Mr Bent. My former Vice Principal of Junction Secondary School class of 1985. I often wonder where he is. Condolences to the family.
May 11, 2024
My condolences Cuz and rest of the family so sad RIP
May 11, 2024
Sincere condolence to Marva (my school mate) the children and rest of family. As one of the Bent family , he was a very genuine person, a #1 classic teacher, the best maths and science teacher you could ever find. His laughter was contagious, he was always very pleasant and smiling. You left a legacy behind. Everyone would want to emulate you.. May your soul R.I.P.
May 11, 2024
My condolences to the family of our Vice President of the former Junction Secondary School. I am among the first set of students to enter that school when it was opened in September 1971. He was a great disciplinarian, teacher and Vice- President. His great works and memories will be cherished. May his soul RIP!
May 11, 2024
My sincere condolences to his wife, children grandchildren and families and friends. He was a wonderful person. From Lititz all school and junction secondary. Rest well Mr Bent.
May 11, 2024
Heartfelt condolences on behalf of the class of 79 students of Junction Secondary School. He was a disciplinarian. His memories will live on.
May 11, 2024
My deepest condolences to the Bent family. He was a very great maths teacher and a vey compassionate and kind Vice Principal.
Glandeen Vaughns
Past Student of
Junction Secondary School
Glandeen Vaughns
Past Student of
Junction Secondary School
May 11, 2024
My heartfelt condolences to my cousin Mauver, his wife, children Andre, Natalie, and Dwayne, all his grandchildren, and other relatives and friends.
As I reminisced on my several encounters with Mr. Bent two memories stood out. Firstly, I fondly recall our several early morning trips to Montego Bay with Mauver, Natalie, and me. Oh, how I enjoyed the beautiful sunrise and the long excursions. My love and appreciation for the sunrise and beautiful scenery were due to these early morning drives.
Even now I come alive and enjoy the sunrise.
Thank you, Mr. Bent💯
Secondly, my first visit to the Statute of Liberty was courtesy of Mauver and Godfrey. It was a special day filled with fun. ♥️
Mr. Bent was a family man. His love and commitment to his family were unmatched.
I remember him as a soft-spoken man who was a disciplinarian. He was a passionate educator who gave yeoman service to the teaching profession.
May his soul rest in peace and light perpetually shine on him.
My family members, I pray that God may strengthen you all during this period of sadness.♥️🙏
As I reminisced on my several encounters with Mr. Bent two memories stood out. Firstly, I fondly recall our several early morning trips to Montego Bay with Mauver, Natalie, and me. Oh, how I enjoyed the beautiful sunrise and the long excursions. My love and appreciation for the sunrise and beautiful scenery were due to these early morning drives.
Even now I come alive and enjoy the sunrise.
Thank you, Mr. Bent💯
Secondly, my first visit to the Statute of Liberty was courtesy of Mauver and Godfrey. It was a special day filled with fun. ♥️
Mr. Bent was a family man. His love and commitment to his family were unmatched.
I remember him as a soft-spoken man who was a disciplinarian. He was a passionate educator who gave yeoman service to the teaching profession.
May his soul rest in peace and light perpetually shine on him.
My family members, I pray that God may strengthen you all during this period of sadness.♥️🙏
May 11, 2024
Mr Bent was a good math teacher..Condolences to his family. May his soul RIP.
May 11, 2024
My sincerest condolences to you and your family. May you find comfort and peace at this sad time. 🙏
May 11, 2024
What a beautiful tribute to Mr. Bent. I did not know your father well but I can see he was an amazing man who made an impact on many people and left lots legacy behind. May he rest in peace. Much love to the family during this time 🙏🏽❤️.
May 11, 2024
R.I.P Uncle Godfrey. Sending prayers for you on your journeys 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾
May 11, 2024
My sensered & my condolences 💐 goes out to u my long time nabour from Southfied Larry Lloydie & Peter I’m sorry I’m not able to attend the funeral service due to illnesses at present 🎁 in the uk 🇬🇧 London I would have make my way their for sure mr bent was my vice principal at junction secondary school 🏫 back in the 80s I’ll never forget that he used to give me and Lloyd lie a lift 🛗 from out by mr kinkead store 🏬 square sorry for ur lost Andre may his soul rest & be at peace ☮️ now & forever more Amen 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼☮️🇯🇲🇯🇲🇯🇲😞😔😔💯
May 11, 2024
SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS BRO @ ANDRE BENT. MY SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY......🙏🙏🙏🎼
May 11, 2024
Mr. Bent was the most brilliant mathematics teacher during my years at Junction Secondary (B B Coke). He always wanted the best for his students. I remembered on my report card he wrote " can do better " my grade was 93%. My grandmother asked why you didn't get more. I guess Mr. Bent knows that I should get 💯. At the time I didn't see the concern as I get older I understand. R.I.P Mr. Bent the GOAT in Education.
May 11, 2024
"Those who live in our memories are never truly gone" wishing the family peace and comfort in this time. (Coworker to Andre Bent)
May 11, 2024
RIP Godfrey. You did it all in life.
May 11, 2024
May his soul rest in peace, my condolences to the entire Bent family, may you find comfort knowing he is at rest and enjoy the memories you built together.Praying your strength 🙏🙏(Co-worker Andre Bent)
May 11, 2024
My deepest condolences to the Bent Family…
My “brother” Andre and the rest of the Family I share your sadness on the passing of Mr Bent. I had the privilege of meeting him and speaking to him a few times as a youngster at Munro College..
May His Soul Rest In Peace..
Stay Strong All.
Blessings 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
My “brother” Andre and the rest of the Family I share your sadness on the passing of Mr Bent. I had the privilege of meeting him and speaking to him a few times as a youngster at Munro College..
May His Soul Rest In Peace..
Stay Strong All.
Blessings 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
May 11, 2024
One of the best teacher ever. Will never be forgotten.
RIP Mr. Bent
RIP Mr. Bent
May 11, 2024
A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us all together again and again. Wishing you all strength for today and hope for tomorrow.
May 11, 2024
Condolences to the family. May each family members find comfort in the Lord at this time.
Hilrett (past student of BB Coke)
Hilrett (past student of BB Coke)
May 11, 2024
May his soul rest in peace. Gone but not forgotten.
May 11, 2024
To his family- immediate and extended: Praying for your peace, comfort and lots of love as you navigate this most tumultuous period.
May 10, 2024
My deepest condolences to my dear Cousins Mauver, Natalie and Dwayne, To TC, Andre and his daughter, his siblings and the rest of his family. I'm so saddened by his passing but am so happy I took the time out to go and visit him last year November. I'm a pass student of Junction Secondary now BB Coke High and during my time Mr Bent was a very strict Principal and a very smart maths teacher. So many memories of him.He will be sadly miss but may his soul rest In peace. Stay strong family and you are all In my prayers ❤️ always.
May 10, 2024
My sincere condolences to Ms Marva, Andre, Dwayne , Natalie, Canute , Vivian and the rest of the family.. I pray the Lord will give you the strength to endure your loss and the courage to be comforted by the precious memories of this gentle giant.
I can recall his love and kindness. He had a passion for music. I can recall the many Sunday evenings when you could hear the sound of " Jim Reeves" songs permeating the air in the cool hills of St. Elizabeth and he's just sitting on his verandah relaxing.
Death leaves a heartache no one can heal. Love leaves a memory no one can steal. I am writing with tear filled eyes and a heavy heart but I shall be comforted daily with thoughts of the life he lived; a life worthy of emulation. His laughter was contagious and his words very soothing. He and I shared a bond from my birth when he was selected to be my God father.
I am forever grateful that he played a great part in my life and I was afforded the opportunity to serve him .
I strongly believe those we love don't go away. They sit beside us every day.
May your soul rest in Peace My beloved God father Godfrey Bent.
Donna Miller
I can recall his love and kindness. He had a passion for music. I can recall the many Sunday evenings when you could hear the sound of " Jim Reeves" songs permeating the air in the cool hills of St. Elizabeth and he's just sitting on his verandah relaxing.
Death leaves a heartache no one can heal. Love leaves a memory no one can steal. I am writing with tear filled eyes and a heavy heart but I shall be comforted daily with thoughts of the life he lived; a life worthy of emulation. His laughter was contagious and his words very soothing. He and I shared a bond from my birth when he was selected to be my God father.
I am forever grateful that he played a great part in my life and I was afforded the opportunity to serve him .
I strongly believe those we love don't go away. They sit beside us every day.
May your soul rest in Peace My beloved God father Godfrey Bent.
Donna Miller
May 10, 2024
Sincere condolences to the Bents family upon the passing of a great icon. His memories will certainly remain in our hearts as we remember him playing dominoes or introducing us to some great music and then the chats of his life history. When I visited him last summer I was hoping we would be able to sit once more on those back porches in Jamaica watching the birds in the trees, however this was not to be he will be sadly missed, however we will cherish those memories. May his family find comfort in the mighty Saviour remembering that one day death will be no more. Keep holding on until that great day when time will change into eternity and all lives labours and trials will be over. From Eric and Lisan Robinson
May 10, 2024
Sincere condolences to the families.Past student of Junction St.Elizabeth Jamaica.
May 10, 2024
My condolences to his families
I am a past student of junction now BB coke
He was vice Principal
during my time st Junction
I am a past student of junction now BB coke
He was vice Principal
during my time st Junction
May 10, 2024
Rest in peace old friend.May Light Perpectually on You.
May 10, 2024
My sincere condolences to Mr Bent family at this sad time.I was a student at Junction Secondary school at the time that he was vice Principal there. He was a disciplinarian,and in doing so we as students fear him and ensure that we were all at our best behavior. After he resigned from Junction Secondary school I never saw him again, and always wondered where he was teaching never knew he had migrated to the states.
Rest in perfect peace Mr Godfrey Bent,may you Soar with the angels😇
Rest in perfect peace Mr Godfrey Bent,may you Soar with the angels😇
May 10, 2024
Rest in internal peace GCB… you were my teacher my confidant and my friend…. You’re one of the realist human person I have ever met… you’re in a class by yourself… truly an amazing person….🙏🙏
May 10, 2024
My condolences to the Bent’s family. I can never forget Godfrey with his winning smile. I pray that the good Lord will give you all the comfort you need to get through these difficult times. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
May 10, 2024
I was a teacher at Junction Secondary School ( now B. B Coke High) from 1976- 1984 . I worked under Mr. G who was head of the Math Dept. at the time. He was a colleague and a trusted friend.
Condolences to his family... R .I. P Mr G.
Condolences to his family... R .I. P Mr G.
May 10, 2024
I remember in the 60s going to Rose Hall Infant School, Mr Bent was teaching at the School riding his Bicycle, he was the only photographer in Rose Hall and surrounding Communities, he was always a all-rounder, R.I.P Mr Bent.
May 10, 2024
My deepest condolences to Mauva, Natalie,Dwayne and the rest of the family, on the loss of your loved one. I was a pupil at the time of Mr Bent's vice principal position at Junction school. I remember how afraid of him we were. Because he was so strict. He definitely kept us in line (smile). Ahhh!!! Memories Memories, may he rest in peace. So sorry Mauva.
May 10, 2024
My sincere condolences to the family and friends of Godfrey. It was such a long time we saw each other that maybe we would pass each other as strangers but I never forgot him and I’m sure he would not have forgotten me too. Reason is that they said I look so much like him x wife Veronica.
May he sleep on in eternity resting in the arms of our Lord.
May he sleep on in eternity resting in the arms of our Lord.
May 10, 2024
Mr. Bent, you are responsible for my career as a (scientist), science teacher at an advanced level. Your charismatic teaching style at Junction secondary school (1972-1974) inspired all of us and your encouragement throughout the years are greatly appreciated sir, may your soul eternally Rest In Peace.
May 10, 2024
My condolences to my auntie and your family and to mr Bent family Rip Godfrey Bent will always be remembered by me
Family tree
Joseph Alexander Bent
Jane (nee Witter) Bent
Isaac Miller
Margaret Miller
Egbert Bent
Clarry Ruby Bent (nee MIller)
Mauver Bent nee Legister
Trasvin Bent
O'Neil Bent
Natalie Bernard (nee Bent)
Andre Bent
Dwayne Bent
Canute Atoye Bent
Enid Bent
Vivian Bent
Ernie Gayle (nee Bent)
Trasvin Bent
O'Neil Bent
Canute Atoye Bent
Enid Bent
Vivian Bent
Ernie Gayle (nee Bent)
Mauver Bent nee Legister
Natalie Bernard (nee Bent)
Andre Bent
Dwayne Bent
Godfrey Bent
Service
made with 